BALAKRISHNA OF UDIPI

THE ADVENT OF MADVACHARYA

There are two more that deserve mention, if not elaboration, for which alone the temple is deservedly famous besides creating exemplary traditions. They are the Paryaya, and the special honour accorded to the acharyas and pithadhipathis. Incidentally it begins with the birth of the Acharya Madva, who revitalized the shrinking glory of Hinduism after Adi Sankara's departure from this world. There was apparent disintegration in the religion due to rising of the ugly head of egoism among the rank and file of the descendants of the pravaktas then. Difference of opinions, dogmatism led to anarchy, and the whole structure was threatened with collapse. The time needed a change both in content, outlook and implementation of the basic principles of Hinduism. As if an answer to the ardent penance of Narayana Bhatta and Vedavathy belonging Nedumane family of brahmins living in this holy town then, Lord Mahavishnu sent Vayu, the god of wind to Bhuloka to be born as their son. He was born in 12311 and after receiving due training from the reputed Achuta Prajnacharya, he took up the glorious work of synthesizing, reinterpreting the Hindu religion.Sifting the chaff with his sharp intellect and philosophy, he succeeded in expounding the Dwaitha philosophy and demonstrated its superiority over other existing sectarian trends that were sapping the very essence that was feeding them. His rich scholarship and clear exposition turned the minds of many protagonists and feeling unequalled, they joined this fold. He consolidated his position and power only from this holy temple which slowly emerged as the impregnable citadel of Dwaitamata. He was its originator, exponent, pontiff etc, and every thing took its final shape with the benign anugraha of Lord Krishna. By his incisive criticism and, analytical insight he established dualism. Jivatma and Paramatma are different, and through bhakti alone mankind will ultimately reach heaven, if his philosophy is followed. That is the sum and substance of his Prabboda.

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